Systems and methods for underwater lighting

ABSTRACT

An underwater lighting system includes a light housing. The light housing includes a weighted base having a bottom surface with a bottom edge and a cover. The cover and the weighted base cooperate to define a cover interior. The cover interior is waterproof. The light housing also includes a light source positioned within the cover interior. The underwater lighting system is configured to prevent a fishing lure or cast net from snagging on the underwater lighting system.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation application of U.S. Pat. No.11,582,958 which issues on Feb. 21, 2023; which claims the prioritybenefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/972,854, filedFeb. 11, 2020, which are hereby incorporated herein by reference intheir entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Embodiments of the technology relate, in general, to underwater lightingtechnology, and in particular to systems and methods for underwaterlighting and retrofitting an underwater light.

BACKGROUND

Often, underwater light systems get caught in a cast net or snag afishing line. There is a need for improved underwater light systems.

SUMMARY

In an embodiment, an underwater lighting system is provided. Theunderwater lighting system may include a light housing. The lighthousing may include a weighted base having a bottom surface with abottom edge and a cover. The cover and the weighted base may cooperateto define a cover interior. The cover interior is waterproof. The lighthousing may also include a light source positioned within the coverinterior. The underwater lighting system may be configured to prevent afishing lure or cast net from snagging on the underwater lightingsystem.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present disclosure will be more readily understood from a detaileddescription of some example embodiments taken in conjunction with thefollowing figures:

FIG. 1 is an elevation view of an underwater lighting system including alight housing and a power supply protector according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a light housing according to anembodiment.

FIG. 3 is a top view of a retrofit underwater lighting system includinga light housing and a power supply protector according to an embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the retrofit underwater lightingsystem taken at line 4-4 in FIG. 3 .

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the power supply protector of FIG. 3.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the light housing of FIG. 3 .

FIG. 7 is a top view of a light housing according to an embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the light housing of FIG. 7 .

FIG. 9 is a top view of a light housing according to an embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the light housing of FIG. 9 .

FIGS. 11-14 depict a using an underwater lighting system while casting anet to trap bait according to an embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of a light housing according to anembodiment.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an underwater lighting system accordingto an embodiment.

FIG. 17 is an elevation view of the underwater lighting system of FIG.16 .

FIG. 18 is an expanded view of a portion of the underwater lightingsystem of FIG. 17 .

FIG. 19 is an expanded view of a portion of the underwater lightingsystem of FIG. 16 .

FIG. 20 is an elevation view of a power line according to an embodiment.

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of an underwater lighting systemaccording to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure will now bedescribed to provide an overall understanding of the principles of thestructure, function, and use of the systems and methods disclosedherein. One or more examples of these non-limiting embodiments areillustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those of ordinary skill in theart will understand that systems and methods specifically describedherein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limitingembodiments. The features illustrated or described in connection withone non-limiting embodiment may be combined with the features of othernon-limiting embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intendedto be included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Reference throughout the specification to “various embodiments,” “someembodiments,” “one embodiment,” “some example embodiments,” “one exampleembodiment,” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature,structure, or characteristic described in connection with any embodimentis included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases“in various embodiments,” “in some embodiments,” “in one embodiment,”“some example embodiments,” “one example embodiment, or “in anembodiment” in places throughout the specification are not necessarilyall referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particularfeatures, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitablemanner in one or more embodiments.

Described herein are example embodiments of systems and methods forunderwater lighting. Underwater lighting devices used by fishermen orboaters are used for attracting fish for the purpose of being caught.Underwater lights attract zooplankton, which attracts baitfish, such asshad, herring, mullets, sardines, and pinfish, which in turn attractspredator fish, such as snook. In one example embodiment, an underwaterlighting system comprises a bottom-dwelling unit including a lighthousing with a heavily weighted base that fits on the underside of thehousing. The weighted base may define a relatively low center or massfor the system, as described further below. The power for the lightingsystem may be self-contained or may be provided, for example, through apower line. In some embodiments, the bottom-dwelling unit includes apower supply protector.

The examples discussed herein are examples only and are provided toassist in the explanation of the systems and methods described herein.None of the features or components shown in the drawings or discussedbelow should be taken as mandatory for any specific implementation ofany of these systems or methods unless specifically designated asmandatory. For ease of reading and clarity, certain components, modules,or methods may be described solely in connection with a specific figure.Any failure to specifically describe a combination or sub-combination ofcomponents should not be understood as an indication that anycombination or sub-combination is not possible. Also, for any methodsdescribed, it should be understood that unless otherwise specified orrequired by context, any explicit or implicit ordering of stepsperformed in the execution of a method does not imply that those stepsmust be performed in the order presented but instead may be performed ina different order or in parallel.

Example embodiments of underwater lighting systems or retrofitunderwater lighting systems described herein are designed to reduce thelikelihood of entanglement with, for example, a net or sinkers used byfishermen. For example, some embodiments of underwater lighting systemsor retrofit underwater lighting systems described herein are designed tohave a smooth, low profile design, with no undercuts or gaps between thesystem and the seafloor. As used herein, seafloor may be interchangeablewith the bottom or floor of another body of water. Previous systemsinclude exposed sharp edges, protruding external bolts, and power supplylines that all can get caught in a cast net or snag a fishing line.Thus, a fisherman cannot cast a net directly over the concentration ofbait centered around the light because the net would get caught.Instead, a cast net has to be thrown off to the side away from the baitfish to avoid snagging the lighting system and/or power supply. Thelighting system, in some embodiments, is designed to partially embeditself in the seafloor by mechanical methods (e.g., using vibration oroscillation, such as an eccentric weight mounted on an electric motorshaft) or by passive methods, such as those driven by tide or currentthat allow sand and silt to accumulate at the base of the lightingsystem, thereby closing gaps. According to various embodiments, thelighting system has a reduced support area on the base, for example athin lip, rib, or section of material, such as plastic or metal, thatdevelops high contact pressure with the sea floor allowing it toembedded. For example, the lighting system includes one or more of a lipextending from the housing and/or power supply that is buried into theseafloor, non-exposed bolts (i.e., are contained within the housingand/or power supply), and a smooth dome housing. The low-profile designallows fisherman to cast a net or fishing line directly over thelighting system where bait is most concentrated, maximizing the abilityto catch bait without getting tangled. The smooth design would also besafer for boats that drive over the system, limiting the possibility ofcatching a light or power supply. In some embodiments, the cover and theseal may be integrated in a single component and may include, forexample, a transparent, flexible diaphragm that provides a water tightseal. The diaphragm could be low profile and resist damage frommechanical impacts.

An underwater lighting system in accordance with the present disclosurecan include a light housing, a power supply protector, or a combinationthereof. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , an example embodimentof an underwater lighting system 10 includes a light housing 12 and apower supply protector 14. In an embodiment, the lighting system 10 mayinclude more than one light housing 12 coupled to a single power supplyprotector 14. The light housing 12 includes a cover 16 and a weightedbase 18. The shape of the cover 16 may vary, as discussed further below.For example, the cover 16 may be dome-shaped, square, trapezoidal, etc.The cover 16, or at least a portion thereof, is transparent ortranslucent. In an embodiment where at least one other component of thelight housing 12 are transparent or translucent, the cover 16 may beopaque. Suitable materials for the cover 16 include, without limitation,tempered glass, polycarbonate, acrylic, and/or flexible materials, suchas elastomers. The cover 16 can be tinted to control the wavelength ofthe light emitted. Although not so limited, the desired wavelength ofthe emitted light may be in the green spectrum. In some embodiments, thewavelength may be in a range of 520 nm to 540 nm or about 530 nm. Theshape and/or weight of the base 18 may vary. For example, the weight ofthe base 18 may be in a range of about 10 pounds to about 20 pounds. Theshape and configuration of the base 18 and/or of the overall system 10may determine the dive angle of the system 10. Accordingly, controllingthe shape of the base 18 and/or of the overall system 10 allows forcontrol of the dive angle. For example, controlling the location of thecenter of gravity (e.g., to be in the lower half of the system) mayallow a lighting system 10 to land right-side up on the seafloor asdiscussed further below. Thus, the distribution of weight can act aspart of a buoyancy management system for deployment and retrieval. In anembodiment where at least one other component of the light housing 12are transparent or translucent, the cover 16 may be opaque. Suitablematerials for the base 18 include, without limitation, steel, stainlesssteel, cast iron, polymer, or elastomer. If desired, dead weight can beadded to the material of the base via a manufacturing process, such asfiller added to injection molding process. Alternatively, dead weight,such as sand, can be encased between two layers of material andhermetically sealed with adhesives, epoxy, or mechanical methods such asultrasonic welding or frictional welding. In an embodiment, the base 18may include a reflective surface 20. Suitable materials for thereflective surface 20 include, for example, a polyester such as Mylar®,a metal such as stainless steel, and may be textured like an orange peelreflector. The reflective surface 20 is on a surface of the base 18facing the cover 16 to radiate light away from the base 18 to maximizethe quantity of light (lumens) being directed into the surroundingwater. The base 18, or at least a portion thereof, may be transparent,translucent, or opaque. Where the base 18 is transparent or translucent,the light housing 12 may provide more diffuse lighting compared to whenthe base 18 is opaque.

The interior of the light housing 12 is waterproof. In an embodiment, awaterproof seal 22, such as a gasket or O-ring, is coupled to the cover16. The waterproof seal 22 may be, for example, compressed by a seriesof bolts arranged in a circular pattern or by a V-groove ring clamp thatapplies pressure to the gasket. Suitable materials for the seal 22include, without limitation, a polymer such as, for example,polyurethane, silicone, EPDM, or neoprene. As shown in FIG. 2 ,waterproof seal 22 may be coupled to the base 18 and the cover 16. Thebase 18 may be coupled to the waterproof seal 22, for example, bymechanical fasteners such as a clamping chime, screws, or bolts 24. Theseal 22 may be compressed between the cover 16 and the base 18. Thelight housing 12 may include a light source 26 positioned within thecover 16. The light source 26 may be coupled to the weighted base 18.

The light source 26 may be a single light or a series or array oflights. The light source 26 may be, for example, an LED light. The lightsource 26 may include an integrated circuit board (e.g., a PCB). Thelight source 26 may be automatically or manually adjustable by a user.In an embodiment, the light source 26 may be configured to have multiplepre-programmed modes. For example, a user may be able to control thelight source 26 to dim or increase the brightness, change the color, orcause a flash effect or strobe effect. Pre-programmed modes may betriggered by a sensor. For example, the lighting system 10 may beconfigured to turn on the light source 26 when a light sensing diodedetects that it is dusk. The lighting system 10 may be configured tocontrol the temperature of the light source 26. Heat transfer from anintegrated circuit board (e.g., the PCB with LEDs) to surroundingambient environment can be engineered to maximize LED longevity. Forexample, the PCB can be mounted in direct contact with thermallyconductive material (e.g., using conductive paste) to establish thenecessary heat transfer to the ambient environment. The LED filamentstyle of lamp combines many relatively low-power LEDs on a transparentglass substrate, coated with phosphor, and then encapsulated insilicone. The lamp bulb can be filled with inert gas, which moves heataway from the extended array of LEDs through convection to the envelopeof the bulb. This design avoids the requirement for a large heat sinkand may allow for a controlled temperature rise on the surface of thecover, thereby preventing biofilm from forming as discussed furtherbelow.

In some embodiments, the lighting system 10 includes more than one lighthousing 12. For example, the light housing 12 can be daisy chained toadditional light housings 12 coupled to a single power source receivingpower and user input from a single controller. In another embodiment,multiple light housings 12 could be deployed, each with a direct powersupply connection to the controller (i.e., in a “home run”configuration). In both a daisy chain and home run configuration, eachlight housing 12 is receiving power and control input from a singlesource controller. The source controller can be programmed to addresseach light source 26 individually or all light sources 26 at the sametime.

The power supply protector 14 may be a low-profile, continuouslyweighted housing (e.g., trapezoidal, arched, faceted). A ratio of theheight to length of the power supply protector 14 may vary. For example,the ratio may be 3:12 or lower. The power supply protector 14 includes aweighted core 28 through which a power line 30 extends. The weight ofthe core 28 may vary. For example, the weight may be about 1 pound perfoot of power line 30 that extends through the power supply protector14. The power line 30 extends through the power supply protector 14 andto the light housing 12 to power the light source 26. The power line 30may extend out of the water and may be coupled to a power source. Thepower supplied may be, for example, 120 volts AC or 12 volts DC. In anembodiment, the power line 30 may extend through a sealed aperture inthe light housing 12. The aperture may be sealed with, for example,silicone. For example, the aperture may be sealed with a round silicontubing that is compressed around the power line 30. There may be morethan one aperture, such as an inlet aperture and an outlet aperture. Inan embodiment where the power line 30 supplies power to more than onelight housing 12, the power line 30 may enter and exit one or more lighthousing 12. If the power line 30 does not exit a light housing 12, theoutlet aperture may be completely sealed. All connections are containedwithin the dome from the underside of the unit.

Referring again to FIG. 1 , in one embodiment, one or both of the lighthousing 12 and the power supply protector 14 includes a lip 32 extendingdownwardly therefrom. Because the lips 32 extend downwardly from thelight housing 12 and the power supply protector 14, the respectiveweight of the base 18 and the core 28 is supported by each of the lips32 instead of the entire bottom of the light housing 12 and the powersupply protector 14. Due to the respective weight of the base 18 and thecore 28, each of the lips 32 are buried or embedded into the seaflooruntil the bottoms of the base 18 and the core 28 rest on the seafloor.In other words, the bottom of the base 18 and the bottom of the core 28may sit flush with the floor. This may prevent sharp edges between thelighting system 10 and the floor where a fishing net or line may snag.Similarly, the bottom of the lighting system 10 sitting flush with thefloor may prevent undercuts or other areas where a sinker or part of anet can get trapped or wedged in place. The lip 32 may extend along theentirety of the bottom of the light housing 12 and/or the power supplyprotector 14. For example, the lip 32 may extend along an entirety ofthe circumference of the cover 16. The lip 32 may be semi-flexible.Suitable materials for the lip 32 include, without limitation, aplastic, such as PVC, or a rubber, such as EPDM. In some embodiments,the lip 32 may be integral to the cover 16. For example, the lip 32 maybe overmolded on the cover 16. The lip 32 may extend approximately0.5-1.0 inch below the bottom of the base 18 and the power supplyprotector 14.

An underwater lighting system may be retrofit in accordance with thepresent disclosure. As shown in FIGS. 3-6 , an example embodiment of aretrofit lighting system 110 may include a light housing 112 andoptionally a power supply protector 114. The base 118 may be coupled tothe cover 116. For example, the base 118 may be fastened via bolts 122to a seal 120, which is coupled to the cover 116. The base 118 of thelight housing 112 may be donut or torus-shaped defining an aperture 132.As discussed above, the shape of the base 118 and/or of the overallsystem 110 may determine the dive angle of the system 110. The light 124that is being retrofitted may be positioned in the aperture of the base118. The light 124 may itself be a light system made, for example, byanother manufacturer than the retrofit lighting system 110. The lighthousing 112 may include a component for keeping the light 124 inposition. For example, a bracket 134 may be coupled to the base 118 andthe light 124. Because the light 124 is already waterproof, the lighthousing 112 is not required to be waterproof as well. In an embodiment,the light housing 112 may include perforations 136 (shown best in FIG. 4). When in use, the space between the cover 116 and the light 124 may befilled with water.

With further reference to FIG. 4 , the power supply protector 114 may befastened (e.g., via bolts 122) to the light housing 112. The core 126may include weight-filled portions 138 (e.g., lead-filled). The core 126may also include a conduit 140 through which the power line 128 extends.In various embodiments, the conduit 140 may be a chain or spiral woundmetal. A slit 142 may extend from the conduit 140 to the exterior of thecore 126 to allow the power line 128 to be inserted into the conduit140. The conduit 140 and the slit 142 may extend the length of the powersupply protector 114, which may vary.

Referring to FIGS. 4-6 , in an embodiment, a portion of the power supplyprotector 114 may extend into the light housing 112 and may be fastened(e.g., via bolts 122) to the light housing 112. As shown in FIGS. 5 and6 , the base 118 of the light housing may include a channel 144corresponding to the shape of the power supply protector 114. Forexample, if the power supply protector 114 is trapezoidal, the channel144 includes inwardly slanting sides. Further, the power line 128extends from the power supply protector 114 through the channel 144 intothe aperture 132 of the base 118.

In an example embodiment of a method of retrofitting a light, the light124 may be positioned in the aperture 132 of the base 118 and attachedto the bracket 134. The power line 128 extending from the light 124 maybe positioned through the channel 144 of the base 118 and into conduit140 through the slit 142 of the power supply protector 114. Thus, thepower line 128 extends from the light 124, through the light housing112, and through and out of the power supply protector 114. In thismanner, the existing light 124 is configured to be a part of theretrofit lighting system 110. When positioned in the water, the lips 130of the light housing 112 and the power supply protector 114 burythemselves in the seafloor. Thus, the smooth, low profile design of theretrofit underwater lighting system 110 reduces the likelihood of a castnet or line being caught compared to the original light 124 alone. Italso allows the net or line to be cast directly over the retrofitunderwater lighting system where bait is most concentrated, maximizingthe ability to catch bait without getting tangled.

As discussed above, the shape of the cover 16 may vary. Further, theshape of the weighted base 18 may also vary. For example, one or more ofthe cover 16 and weighted base 18 may be dome-shaped, square,trapezoidal, etc. FIGS. 7 and 8 show an example of a light housing 12′having a rectangular shape. The light housing 12′ includes a cover 16′having a beveled rectangular shape and a rectangular weighted base 18′.Similarly, FIGS. 9 and 10 show an example of a light housing 12″ havinga square shape. The light housing 12″ includes a cover 16″ having abeveled square shape and a square weighted base 18″.

In use, an underwater lighting system may allow a fishing net or line becast directly over the concentration of bait centered around the lightwithout the net or line getting caught or snagged on the underwaterlighting system. For example, referring to FIGS. 11-14 , a fisherman 50on a dock 52 may cast a net 54 over bait 56 attracted to light from anunderwater lighting system 58 (e.g., an underwater lighting systemaccording to any of the embodiments described herein) (FIG. 11 ). As thenet sinks towards the floor 60 of the body of water 62, the net landsaround some of the bait 56 and the underwater lighting system 58 (FIG.12 ). The design of the underwater lighting system 58 allows thefisherman to close the net 54 to trap the bait 56 without the net 54being caught or snagged (FIGS. 13 and 14 ).

The lighting system, according to various embodiments, may include oneor more electrical components, each of which may or may not be coupledto a central processing unit (CPU) or controller 70 coupled with theelectrical components as shown in FIG. 15 . Examples of electricalcomponents include, without limitation, a control station with a photocell, GFCI, and a timer. The control station may be remotely positionedon, for example, a dock or boat near the light housing 12. The controlstation may have manual override capabilities to turn the light on andoff outside of the photocell controller. Additional electricalcomponents include, without limitation, communications components, acamera 72, a speaker 74, one or more sensors 76, etc. For example, thelighting system can communicate data via a wired or wireless (e.g.,Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc.) connection to a remote computing device (e.g., asmart phone or other peripheral device). For example, the connection maybe a Bluetooth-Cellular antenna 78. The camera 72 may be a pan-tilt-zoomcamera (PTZ) camera. The lighting system may be configured to transmitpictures or a livestream of the area around the lighting system from thecamera through the communications transceiver (e.g., the antenna 78).Examples of suitable sensors 76 include, without limitation, atemperature sensor, a depth sensor, etc. Data collected from thesensor(s) may also be transmitted to the remote computing device. Thespeaker 74 may be configured to provide acoustic signals (e.g., audibleor inaudibly by humans). The controller 70 may also be operably coupledwith the light source 26, such as through the circuit board 80.

In some embodiments, the lighting system may be configured to prevent orreduce the build-up of a biofilm or barnacles. For example, the lightingsystem may include an ultrasonic transducer that is coupled directly tothe cover such that ultrasonic excitation causes cavitation on thesurface of the cover (e.g., part of or instead of speaker 74).Cavitation prevents the build-up of biofilm, which attracts barnacles.In another embodiment, the lighting system may include a coating thatacts to prevent the build-up of biofilm. The coating may include, forexample, silver and/or copper oxide. In various embodiments, the coverinterior can be heated by a direct method or by a passive method, suchas with heat from the light. Examples of direct methods of heatinginclude, without limitation, a microwave or radio frequency signalemitted by an antenna embedded in the cover or mounted to the interiorof the cover, a heating element within the cover interior to heat theair in the light housing, a silver-ceramic material printed and bakedonto the interior surface of the cover, a series of very fine wiresembedded within the cover, or a combination thereof. As shown in FIG. 15, another method of preventing biofilm is to embed in the cover, orotherwise attach conductive wire 82 to the interior surface of thecover, where the application of current will result in power loss alongthe length of wire according to I squared R losses, or Joule heating thelens water interface to temperatures adequate enough to eliminatebarnacle growth.

Referring to FIGS. 16-19 , an example embodiment of an underwaterlighting system 200 includes a light housing 202. The light housing 202includes a cover 204 and a weighted base 206. The shape of the cover 204may vary. For example, the cover 204 may be dome-shaped, square,trapezoidal, etc. The cover 204, or at least a portion thereof, istransparent or translucent. Suitable materials for the cover 204include, without limitation, tempered glass, polycarbonate, or acrylic.The shape and/or weight of the base 206 may vary. For example, theweight of the base 206 may be in a range of about 10 pounds to about 20pounds. The shape and configuration of the base 206 and/or of theoverall system may determine the dive angle of the system as discussedabove. Accordingly, controlling the shape of the base 206 and/or of theoverall system allows for control of the dive angle. Suitable materialsfor the base 206 include, without limitation, a metal, a polymer, or anelastomer. In an embodiment, the base 206 may include a reflectivesurface, such as the reflective surface 20 discussed above, to radiatelight away from the base 206 and into the surrounding water.

The base 206 may include an outer shell 208 and an inner shell 210 thatdefine a base interior 212. The base interior 212 may be waterproof. Thebase interior 212 may be weighted. For example, sand 214 may bepositioned in the base interior 212 to act as a dead weight to keep thelighting system 200 on the seafloor. The outer shell 208 and inner shell210 may both include an outer flange 216, an upper surface 218, and asidewall 220 extending therebetween. The outer and inner shells 208, 210may be coupled or sealingly pressed together at the outer flanges 216.For example, the edges of the outer flanges 216 may be clamped together.The bottom of the light housing 202 may define a cavity 222. Forexample, the outer shell 208 of the base 206 may define the cavity 222,which is open to the surface under the light system (e.g., theseafloor). As discussed further below, the cavity 222 may help regulatethe temperature of the light source 224 in the light housing 202. Whilethe shape of the base 206 may vary, in the illustrated embodiment, thebase interior 212 is generally shaped like a hollow truncated cone andthe cavity 222 is generally bowl-shaped. The shape of the base 206 maybe determined based on the desired location of the center of gravity ofthe lighting system 200.

In some embodiments, the cover 204 may include a wall 226 ending in anouter flange 216. The wall 226 may be a domed wall. The light housing202 may also define a cover interior 228 between the cover 204 and thebase 206 (e.g., between the cover 204 wall and the inner shell 210 ofthe base 206). The cover interior 228 of the light housing 202 iswaterproof and may contain the light source 224. Additionally, the airpocket in the cover interior 228 may act to regulate the temperature ofthe light source 224 or any heating element. This temperature regulationmay help in prevention the attachment of a biofilm, as discussed furtherbelow. In an embodiment, a waterproof seal 230, such as the waterproofseal 22 discussed above, is coupled to the cover 204 and the base 206.In an embodiment, the same clamp (e.g., a V-groove clamp 232) thatcouples the outer and inner shells 208, 210 of the base 206 may couplethe base 206, waterproof seal 230, and cover 204.

Referring to FIG. 19 , in an embodiment where the power supply is notself-contained, the lighting system 200 may include a power line 234extending into the light housing 202. The light housing 202 may includean aperture 236 through which the power line 234 extends. The aperture236 may project or extend out from the edge of the light housing 202.For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the cross-sectional area ofthe edge of the light housing 202 is generally circular except where theaperture 236 projects from the light housing 202. The aperture 236 canbe shaped with large radii to prevent kinking or damage to the powerline 234 where it enters the light housing 202. The aperture 236 canalso provide strain relief, thereby isolating the soldered powerconnection to the light source 224 (e.g., connection to the circuitboard) from damage caused by tensile forces during deployment orretrieval. The power line 234 may include a voltage conduit 238, agrounding conduit 240, and a flexible member 242 to carry tensile forcesthat are expected during deployment and retrieval.

In some embodiments, the lighting system may include a weighted powerline. In such an embodiment, the power supply protector may encase thepower line as an example alternative to the housing configuration of thepower supply protector 14 described above. As shown in FIG. 20 , in anembodiment, the power supply protector may be a chain 250 through whichthe power line 252 extends. The chain 250 may provide strength andadditional support to the power line 252. In an embodiment, the powersupply protector may include a plastic sheath 254 surrounding the chain250 and power line 252. As discussed further below, a reinforced powerline may allow for easier deploying and retrieval of the lightingsystem.

With reference to FIG. 21 , in accordance with an embodiment, a lightingsystem 300 may be designed to produce a consistent and balanced dragforce when it is dropped into water. The light housing 302, for example,can have an axisym metric shape with a fluid intake portion 304 at thebottom of the light housing 302 and a fluid output portion 306 at thetop of the light housing 302. As water enters the fluid intake portion304, it can be funneled through a series of channels or apertures intothe fluid output portion 306 to create a column of water to stabilizethe lighting system 300 as it descends. The base 308 can be weighted(e.g., by using a heavy material or dead weight) such that the bottom ofthe lighting system 300, including the fluid intake portion 304, isoriented in a downward position to accept water. Drag is produced by theconcentrated column of fluid flowing from the fluid output portion 306such that the lighting system 300 remains stable during its descent.

It will be appreciated that modifying the size and shape of the fluidintake portion 304 and fluid output portion 306 can change the flowvelocity, drag, or pressure as desired. In one version, the fluid intakeportion 304 can have an annular configuration with a larger diameterthan the annular shape of the fluid output portion 306. The flowvelocity and pressure can increase based on the differential between thediameter of the fluid intake portion 304 and the fluid output portion306. The transition from the fluid intake portion 304 to the fluidoutput portion 306 can, for example, be via a plurality ofcircumferentially located apertures or orifices 310 positioned on a wallof the fluid output portion 306. The orifices 310 may produce turbulentflow at the centrally located, vertically oriented, exhaust channel 312to create frictional drag that may advantageously stabilize the lightingsystem 300 as it descends. Such a configuration can allow for thelighting system 300 to descend in a slow and controlled manner to atarget location. It will be appreciated that any suitable geometry,baffles, or passive flow control features may be utilized to achievedesirable stabilization and descent characteristics. In an alternateembodiment, the lighting system 300 can include active flow controlsystems such as a propeller or a pump powered by an onboard battery orpower system.

As described above, the lighting system may include a self-containedpower supply. In some embodiments, the lighting system may include abattery. The battery may be a rechargeable battery. For example, thebattery may be recharged using an inductive charger, therefore allowingfor a hermetically sealed system.

In an embodiment, the cover and the seal are an integrated diaphragm ofelastomeric material. By pressurizing the air surrounding the light inthe cover interior, seal integrity can be visually inspected prior touse. Ultrasonic excitation could be applied to the V-groove clamp, whichevenly distributes the excitation to the cover, thereby preventingaccumulation of biofilm and the unwanted pests, such as barnacles, thatmay be attracted to a biofilm layer. The material properties of thecover can be modified to enhance the vibratory response of the system.The shape of the cover can be modified to tune the dynamic response andresonant frequency characteristics, for maximum reduction of biofilm.

To deploy an underwater lighting system, the lighting system may belowered into the water. The user can toss the lighting system into thewater, for example, using a Frisbee-throwing motion or ahorseshoe-tossing motion. The user may hold the power line or anothercord coupled to the light housing to control the descent of the lighthousing. As discussed above, the lighting system may be self-righting,so that as the lighting system hits the seafloor, the base is facingdownward and the cover facing upward. Where the power line or anothercord is used to lower the lighting system, in addition to the center ofgravity being low in the device, the center of gravity may be shifted tothe side of the lighting system opposite where the cord is coupled. Asthe lighting system settles on the seafloor, the edge of the base (e.g.,the lip) may be partially buried due to the weight of the lightingsystem.

In various embodiments, the lighting system may be configured to makeretrieval of the system easier. For example, the lighting system mayinclude a selectively inflatable bladder or other expandable container.The bladder may be positioned in a chamber that opens to the exterior ofthe light housing. A pressurized gas cartridge, such as a CO₂ cartridge,may be coupled to the bladder. When the user wants to retrieve thelighting system from the seafloor, the gas cartridge may be used toinflate the bladder. The inflated bladder will increase the buoyancy ofthe lighting system making retrieval easier. In an embodiment, thecontroller may be coupled to the gas cartridge or a valve coupling thegas cartridge and the bladder and, accordingly, may be operablyconfigured to control the inflation of the bladder. The gas cartridgemay be replaceable. After use, the bladder may be configured to bemanually deflated and repacked into the chamber. The inflatable bladdercan act as part of a buoyancy management system for deployment andretrieval.

A “remote computing device,” “computer,” “computer system,” “host,”“server,” or “processor” can be, for example and without limitation, aprocessor, microcomputer, minicomputer, server, mainframe, laptop,personal data assistant (PDA), wireless e-mail device, cellular phone,pager, processor, fax machine, scanner, or any other programmable deviceconfigured to transmit and/or receive data over a network. The systemsand devices disclosed herein can include memory for storing certainsoftware modules used in obtaining, processing, and communicatinginformation. It can be appreciated that such memory can be internal orexternal with respect to operation of the disclosed embodiments. Thememory can also include any means for storing software, including a harddisk, an optical disk, floppy disk, ROM (read only memory), RAM (randomaccess memory), PROM (programmable ROM), EEPROM (electrically erasablePROM) and/or other computer-readable media. Non-transitorycomputer-readable media, as used herein, comprises all computer-readablemedia except for a transitory, propagating signals.

In various embodiments disclosed herein, a single component can bereplaced by multiple components and multiple components can be replacedby a single component to perform a given function or functions. Exceptwhere such substitution would not be operative, such substitution iswithin the intended scope of the embodiments.

The foregoing description of embodiments and examples has been presentedfor purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to beexhaustive or limiting to the forms described. Numerous modificationsare possible in light of the above teachings. Some of thosemodifications have been discussed, and others will be understood bythose skilled in the art. The embodiments were chosen and described inorder to best illustrate principles of various embodiments as are suitedto particular uses contemplated. The scope is, of course, not limited tothe examples set forth herein, but can be employed in any number ofapplications and equivalent devices by those of ordinary skill in theart. Rather it is hereby intended the scope of the invention to bedefined by the claims appended hereto.

What is claimed is:
 1. An underwater lighting system comprising: a lighthousing, the light housing comprising: a cover having a first side and asecond side opposing said first side; a weighted base, separate anddistinct from the cover, wherein the weighted base is securable to boththe first and second side of the cover; and a light source, wherein thecover extends entirely over the light source; wherein the underwaterlighting system is configured to prevent a fishing lure or cast net fromsnagging on the underwater lighting system.
 2. The underwater lightingsystem of claim 1, further comprising a buoyancy management system fordeployment and retrieval; a waterproof seal between the cover and theweighted base; and a ring clamp coupling the weighted base and thecover.
 3. The underwater lighting system of claim 1, wherein a bottomedge of the light housing is operably configured to seat itself into afloor of a body of water; wherein the cover of the light housingincludes an outer lip extending downward beyond an entirety of the lightsource and a bottom edge of a bottom surface of the weighted base; andwherein the weighted base has a low center of gravity such that thelight housing is biased towards an upright position.
 4. The underwaterlighting system of claim 1, further comprising a line coupled to thelight source, the line extending from the light housing to a powersource; wherein the line includes a power line, a protective sheath, anda power line protection portion, wherein the line is configured toprevent a fishing lure or cast net from snagging on the line; andwherein the line includes at least one retrieval element configured tofacilitate return of the light housing.
 5. The underwater lightingsystem of claim 1, wherein the light housing further comprises aself-contained power supply, wherein the self-contained power supplycomprises a battery that is inductively chargeable; and a biofilmprevention element selected from the group consisting of an ultrasonictransducer, a coating on the cover, a heating element, a metallicmaterial coupled to or embedded in the cover, a metallic-ceramiccomposite material coupled to or embedded in the cover, and combinationsthereof.
 6. The underwater lighting system of claim 1, furthercomprising a controller operably coupled to the light source, thecontroller being in communication with a remote computing device; and acontrol element selected from the group consisting of a photo cell, aheating element, a camera, a sensor, a speaker, an antenna, andcombinations thereof.
 7. An underwater lighting system comprising: alight housing having a bottom edge and defining an interior space,wherein the interior space is a waterproof space, and wherein the bottomedge of the light housing is operably configured to seat itself into afloor of a body of water; and a light source positioned entirely withinthe interior space; wherein the underwater lighting system is operablyconfigured to prevent fishing line or cast net from snagging on theunderwater lighting system.
 8. The underwater lighting system of claim7, further comprising a buoyancy management system for deployment andretrieval.
 9. The underwater lighting system of claim 7, furthercomprising a line coupled to the light source, the line extending fromthe light housing to a power source.
 10. The underwater lighting systemof claim 9, wherein the line includes a power line, a protective sheath,and a power line protection portion, wherein the line is configured toprevent a fishing lure or cast net from snagging on the line.
 11. Theunderwater lighting system of claim 7, wherein the light housing furthercomprises a self-contained power supply, wherein the self-containedpower supply comprises a battery that is inductively chargeable.
 12. Theunderwater lighting system of claim 7, further comprising a controlleroperably coupled to the light source, the controller being incommunication with a remote computing device.
 13. The underwaterlighting system of claim 7, wherein the light housing comprises abiofilm prevention element selected from the group consisting of anultrasonic transducer, a coating on the cover, a heating element, ametallic material coupled to or embedded in the cover, ametallic-ceramic composite material coupled to or embedded in the cover,and combinations thereof.
 14. An underwater lighting system comprising:a cover having a first side and a second side opposing said first side;a base, separate and distinct from the cover, wherein the base issecurable to both the first and second side of the cover, and whereinthe cover and the vase cooperate to define a cover interior, the coverinterior being waterproof; and a light source positioned within thecover interior, wherein the cover extends entirely over the lightsource; wherein the underwater lighting system is configured to preventa fishing lure or cast net from snagging on the underwater lightingsystem.
 15. The underwater lighting system of claim 14, furthercomprising a buoyancy management system for deployment and retrieval.16. The underwater lighting system of claim 14, further comprising aline coupled to the light source, the line extending from the lighthousing to a power source; wherein the line includes a power line, aprotective sheath, and a power line protection portion, wherein the lineis configured to prevent a fishing lure or cast net from snagging on theline.
 17. The underwater lighting system of claim 14, wherein the lighthousing further comprises a self-contained power supply, wherein theself-contained power supply comprises a battery that is inductivelychargeable.
 18. The underwater lighting system of claim 14, furthercomprising a controller operably coupled to the light source, thecontroller being in communication with a remote computing device. 19.The underwater lighting system of claim 14, wherein the light housingcomprises a biofilm prevention element selected from the groupconsisting of an ultrasonic transducer, a coating on the cover, aheating element, a metallic material coupled to or embedded in thecover, a metallic-ceramic composite material coupled to or embedded inthe cover, and combinations thereof.
 20. The underwater lighting systemof claim 14, wherein the light housing further comprises a waterproofseal between the cover and the base.